'Bayarin na naman?': BI eyes P247 fee for every passenger using 'modern airport security system'
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has proposed imposing a P247 fee for every passenger for the use of a modern airport security system.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado on Tuesday (June 2) said the fee is part of a public-private partnership initiative intended to enhance immigration operations through advanced biometric systems, real-time risk assessment, data integration, and automated border control technologies.
He said this is part of the planned Civil Aviation and Immigration Security Services (CAISS) project.
Viado said the CAISS is undergoing review to determine if the proposed user fee is necessary, reasonable, and justified by tangible benefits to travelers.
The BI chief added consultations will also be held with stakeholders from the aviation, tourism, and transport sectors.
“We recognize the importance of modernizing our border management infrastructure to better combat transnational crimes, human trafficking, terrorism, and other emerging security threats,” Viado said.
“At the same time, we understand the sentiments of our kababayan, especially during challenging economic times. Any proposal that may affect travelers financially must undergo proper review, consultation, and clear public communication,” he added.
Since nothing is final yet with the project, Viado also denied reports that the BI will start collecting fees from passengers at the amount P480.
“Layunin nating magkaroon ng mas ligtas at mas modernong border control system, ngunit dapat itong maisakatuparan sa paraang malinaw, makatarungan, at may tiwala ang publiko. Tiyakin muna nating lubusang napag-aralan at maipaliwanag ito nang maayos sa ating mga kababayan (We aim to have a safer and more modern border control system but that has to be implemented in a way that is clear, justified and with the trust of the public),” said the commissioner.